Most of us know to remove valuables like phones or bags when we leave our cars. But in some parts of the UK, thieves aren’t just after what’s inside the vehicle - they’re targeting the wheels themselves.
A Freedom of Information request by online tyre retailer Blackcircles has revealed the UK’s top hotspots for car wheel and tyre theft. Hertfordshire recorded the highest number of cases overall, with 465 reported incidents between 2019 and 2024.
However, when adjusted for population, Durham is the worst affected, with 41 wheel thefts per 100,000 people - a higher rate than major cities like Manchester and even London. By contrast, Merseyside saw just six thefts across five years, equal to 0.6 cases per 100,000 people.
Wheel thefts are rising sharply
The issue appears to be escalating. Blackcircles’ data shows wheel thefts increased by around 25% between 2023 and 2024, with areas such as Powys in Wales experiencing spikes of up to 70%.
How to reduce your risk
Blackcircles tyre expert, Nyo Logan, warns how quickly this type of theft can turn into a major inconvenience: “Having your tyres stolen is one of those nightmares that can ruin your day in seconds.”
Logan recommends a few simple steps to deter thieves:
• Choose your parking spot wisely - Avoid dark, quiet streets. Opt for well-lit, busy areas.
• Use home security - On driveways, motion-sensor lights or basic cameras can make criminals think twice.
• Fit locking wheel nuts - These require a special key to remove and can slow down thieves.
• Angle your wheels - Turning wheels towards the kerb can make the bolts harder to reach.
• Secure spare wheels - 4x4s with tailgate-mounted or under-car spares are particularly vulnerable.
A shift in criminal trends?
Interestingly, this spike in wheel thefts comes as catalytic converter thefts have dropped dramatically. Exclusive data shows these incidents have fallen by around 98% on average over the last three years.
